Back to alphabetical overview – click here
Tenuto – Definition
Tenuto is an articulation marking that instructs a performer to hold a note for its full written value. Depending on the musical context, it may also suggest giving the note slight emphasis.
What is Tenuto?
Tenuto is indicated by a short horizontal line placed above or below a note. Unlike staccato, which shortens a note, tenuto encourages the performer to sustain the note fully. In some situations, it also calls for a gentle accent without making the note detached.
The exact interpretation of tenuto depends on the style of music and the surrounding articulation markings.
Why is Tenuto important for pianists?
Tenuto helps pianists shape musical phrases by giving important notes their full value and expressive weight. It is commonly used to emphasize melody notes or to create a more sustained, singing tone.
Understanding tenuto allows pianists to perform with greater musical expression and to follow the composer’s articulation more accurately.